Alanganallur is a small village about 18km north of Madurai, in the south indian state of Tamil Nadu. Nothing special to see here. Except once in a year when it becomes a main spot to experience the indian version of bullfight or bull taming - Jallikattu.

Jallikattu is a traditional part of the four days of the Pongal celebrations (Hindu harvest festival held in the month of January, usually January 13th to 16th).

The bulls performing at the event are a special breed. The event is dicussed controversally by animal rights activists and the people of Tamil Nadu for whom it is an important and traditional part of the Pongal festivities. Currently (Since 2014) the practice is banned by the Indian Supreme Court.

In contrast to bullfights in Spain the animals are not to be injured deliberately, though injuries on both sides frequently occur of course. The aim of the contestants is to hold on to the animal as long as possible or even to subdue the bull.